Parts for your 2015 Honda Accord-Strut mounts

Maintaining and Replacing Strut Mounts on Your 2015 Honda Accord

The 2015 Honda Accord is equipped with strut mounts, which play a crucial role in the vehicle's overall suspension system. These mounts act as a pivotal connection between the vehicle's struts and its body, facilitating smoother rides by dampening vibrations and noise, and allowing the struts to pivot as you steer your car. Proper maintenance and timely replacement of these components are essential for optimal performance and safety.

Over time, strut mounts can wear out due to constant exposure to road conditions, temperature variations, and everyday driving dynamics. Symptoms of worn-out strut mounts include excessive noise when driving over bumps, steering issues, and uneven tyre wear. When these symptoms arise, it's essential to inspect the strut mounts and consider their replacement.

• Understanding Strut Mounts: Strut mounts are not just simple connectors, they also help insulate the vehicle from road vibrations. Moreover, they allow for quick steering adjustments and provide a mounting point for the suspension strut and coil spring. This makes them a significant contributor to vehicle handling stability and comfort.
• Signs of Wear:
  1. Increased noise levels such as clunking or thumping when driving over rough terrains can indicate strut mount issues.
  2. Difficulty in steering or a wandering steering wheel, particularly noticeable during turns, might be linked to worn mounts.
  3. Inspect tyres for unusual or uneven wear patterns, as this might emerge from misalignments or improper suspension support due to faulty mounts.
• Replacement Interval: Strut mounts have no fixed lifespan, and their durability varies depending on driving conditions, frequency of use, and environmental factors. Typically, they might be due for replacement anywhere between 80,000 to 100,000 kilometres. However, regular checks during maintenance visits can help identify the need for earlier intervention.

Although certain DIY enthusiasts might find it tempting to replace strut mounts themselves, it's advisable to seek assistance from a certified mechanic. The process involves disassembling several suspension system parts and, without proper expertise and tools, the installation might not be accurate, leading to further complications. Here's a general procedure for a strut mount replacement:

1. Prepare the Area: Start with lifting the vehicle securely. Ensure it's steadily supported on jack stands before proceeding. Remove the wheel to gain access to the strut area.
2. Remove the Strut Assembly: Loosen and take off any components that might restrict access to the strut. This might include brake line brackets or sway bar links. Carefully detach the strut assembly from the vehicle, keeping note of the arrangement for proper reassembly.
3. Disassemble and Replace: Once the strut assembly is out, use a spring compressor to relieve tension from the coil spring. It's crucial to handle the strut assembly carefully as coil springs under tension can be hazardous. After the spring is compressed, remove the old strut mount and replace it with a new one, ensuring it matches the specifications of the original equipment.
4. Reassembly: Reinstall the strut assembly into the vehicle by reversing the steps used in removal. Pay attention to torque specifications for bolts and nuts to ensure a secure fit.
5. Alignment Check: After installation, it's highly recommended to have the vehicle's alignment checked. Even minor misalignments can cause uneven tyre wear and affect the car's handling negatively.

Regular maintenance checks, ideally during routine servicing, can help identify early signs of strut mount wear and tear. Additionally, driving habits can play a significant role in the longevity of strut mounts. Sudden heavy braking and speedy navigation over rough roads can increase strain on the mounts, so consider adopting a smoother driving approach.

Overall, maintaining your Honda Accord's strut mounts ensures not only a comfortable ride but also contributes to the car's safety and performance. Keep an ear out for unusual noises and don't hesitate to consult with automotive professionals when in doubt. With the right care, your Accord can continue delivering an enjoyable driving experience for many miles ahead.